Fitness card system

ABSTRACT

An apparatus, system, and method provide management of fitness activities by providing a randomized presentation of fitness activities to a user. A plurality of fitness cards arranged in a flexible and resilient card holder provide a user with a system and method for managing fitness activities. Each of the fitness cards includes a fitness activity description that may include any combination of fitness activity identifiers, images, and instructions.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/512,796, filed on Oct. 20, 2003, entitled “Exercise Challenge Cards” and which is incorporated by reference herein and included in the Appendix of this application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates in general to fitness activities and more specifically to a fitness card system.

A wide variety of fitness activities and exercises have been developed that allow persons to obtain or maintain a desired fitness level. Unfortunately, the activities and exercises often become boring and uninteresting.

Accordingly, there is a need for an apparatus, system, and method for managing fitness activities.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a fitness card in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a front face of an exemplary fitness activity card in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a perspective view of a fitness activity card system including a fitness activity card deck 302 and a card deck holder in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a perspective view of the fitness activity card system where the deck holder is in an open position in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a rear perspective view of the fitness card system where the card deck is in a closed position in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An apparatus, system, and method provide management of fitness activities by providing a randomized presentation of fitness activities to a user. A plurality of fitness cards arranged in a flexible and resilient card holder provide a user with a system and method for managing fitness activities. Each of the fitness cards includes a fitness activity description that may include any combination of fitness activity identifiers, images, and instructions. One exemplary use of the fitness card system includes selecting a series of fitness cards from the holder after the fitness cards have been shuffled and secured in the card holder. The user performs the fitness activities represented by the selected cards. The fitness card system may be used to engage in any number of games or activities suitable for an individual or a group.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a fitness card 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As discussed in further detail below, a plurality of fitness cards 100 are used to form a card deck that allows a user to engage in fitness activities, exercises, or other physical activities in an entertaining manner. For example, the fitness activity cards 100 may be used to play games or manage workouts where selection of a particular card is random, or nearly random. In one exemplary use, the user inserts a shuffled deck of fitness activity cards into the card holder where the elastic material of the card holder expands slightly to firmly hold the card deck with a tension force. The user may blindly select one or more cards to create a random workout. The fitness activity cards 100 are formed from a durable, treated, light weight material such as coated paper and include any combination of printed, etched, or raised letters, numbers, symbols, images, or other indicia related to a fitness activity. In the exemplary embodiment the fitness cards 100 have dimensions in accordance to poker-size playing cards and are formed from 10.5 mil, 2-ply laminated paper stock. The exemplary fitness cards 100, therefore, have a width of 2{fraction (15/32)} inches and a length of 3{fraction (15/32)} inches. In the exemplary embodiment, the fitness activities include body resistance exercises that utilize body weight to increase strength, flexibility and general well being. These exercises are also sometimes referred to as body weight exercises, core training exercises, and functional fitness exercises in the fitness industry. Examples of body weight exercises include pushups, sit-ups, “chase the rabbit” kicks, and “duck walk” lunges. The fitness activity cards 100, however, may have any size and may be made of any suitable material. Further the fitness activity cards 100, may represent sporting drills or skill exercises. For example, a set of fitness activity cards 100 may represent different skill training exercises related to basketball where each card 100 represents a running, jumping, or shooting exercise related to basketball. Another example of a suitable fitness activity includes aquatic exercise.

The fitness card 100 includes a fitness activity description 102 that at least allows a user to determine the fitness activity represented by the particular fitness card 100. In the exemplary embodiment, the fitness activity description 102 includes a fitness activity identification 104, a fitness activity category indicator 108, a fitness activity image 110, and fitness activity instructions 112. Any combination of indicators, images and descriptions, however, may be used. Further, the information identified by the fitness activity identification 104, fitness activity category indicator 108, fitness activity image 110, or fitness activity instructions 112 may be represented by any combination of images, text, and symbols. In addition, a particular image, symbol or section of text may represent multiple identifiers, descriptions and other information identified by the blocks in FIG. 1. As described below in further detail, the fitness activity instructions 112 may include fitness activity level indicators 114 in some circumstances. The fitness activity identification 104 includes information that allows the user to identify the represented fitness activity. In the exemplary embodiment, the fitness activity identification 104 includes a fitness activity name 106. For example, the text, “PUSH UPS WIDE”, may be a fitness activity name 106. In some situations, however, the fitness activity identification 106 may include other information such as a symbol, image, color or other markings that identify the fitness activity.

The fitness activity image 110 includes a photograph, drawing, or other visual representation of a body performing the fitness activity and showing one or more steps of the fitness activity represented by the fitness activity card. The fitness activity image 110, therefore, may include a series of images representing the different phases of the fitness activity. Although the fitness activity image 110 in the exemplary embodiment is a detailed drawing or photograph, the fitness activity may be stick figure, cartoon, or any other image that conveys information related to the fitness activity. Further, the fitness activity image 110 may include a representation of an alternate technique for performing the fitness activity. If the fitness activity card 100 represents a push up, for example, the fitness activity image 110 may show an alternate pushup where the knees are placed on the floor.

The fitness activity instructions 112 include text describing the preferred method of performing the fitness activity and may include tips, suggestions or other information related to engaging in the fitness activity. In the exemplary embodiment, the fitness activity instructions 112 include fitness activity level indicators 114 that provide information related to two or more difficulty or intensity levels of performing the fitness activity. The fitness activity level indicators 114 may include a suggested number of repetitions or a suggested time period for performing an activity corresponding to different levels, for example. Suggested time periods may be appropriate where the fitness activity includes maintaining a particular body configuration or position. In the exemplary embodiment, the fitness activity level indicators 114 include a beginner, intermediate and advanced level. Accordingly, a particular fitness activity card 100 may include fitness activity level indicators 114 indicating suggested repetitions of 8, 12, and 16 for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels, respectively. Where time periods are suggested, 10 seconds, 30 seconds and 60 seconds may correspond to beginner, intermediate and advanced levels.

The fitness activity category indicator 108 provides information indicating the general part of the body engaged during the fitness activity. In the exemplary embodiment, the fitness activity category indicators 108 include upper body, middle body, lower body, and full body categories. Any number of fitness activity category indicators 108 may be used, however.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a front face 200 of an exemplary fitness activity card 100 in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the invention. The exemplary fitness activity card 100 represents a pushup exercise. As explained above, any of several exercises or physical activities may be represented by the fitness activity card 100 and the front face 200 represented in FIG. 2 is provided only as an example.

The fitness activity name 106 in the exemplary front face 200 includes text reciting “PUSH UPS WIDE” indicating that the represented fitness activity is a pushup where the hands are placed at a slightly wider than normal spacing. A colored bar provides the fitness activity category indicator 108 indicating that the fitness activity is an upper body exercise. In the exemplary embodiment, orange, green, blue, and red color bars represent lower body, middle body, upper body, and full body activities, respectively.

The fitness activity image 110 in the exemplary front face 200 includes two illustrations representing the fitness activity at the upper position where the arms are extended and a lower position where the individual is near the floor. The fitness activity instructions 112 may be positioned in a single location or may be distributed over the front face 200. For example, fitness activity instructions 112 relating to a position may be positioned near the image 110 corresponding to the particular stage of the activity. The fitness activity instructions 112 include fitness activity level indicators 114 providing recommended repetitions (or time periods) for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels in the exemplary embodiment. Further, the fitness activity image 110 includes an illustration of an alternative technique for performing the fitness activity in the exemplary front face 200.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a perspective view of a fitness activity card system 300 including a fitness activity card deck 302 and a card deck holder 304 in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the invention. The exemplary deck holder 304 includes a closing flap 306 that is releaseably secured to the body 308 of the deck holder 302 in a closed position using a securing mechanism (not shown). Examples of suitable securing mechanisms include hook and loop systems, snaps, and buckles. In the exemplary embodiment, one or more sections of flexible, elastic material are shaped into boxlike pouch having a chamber slightly smaller than the card deck 302 that expands to receive the card deck 302. When the card deck 302 is inserted into the card deck holder 304, the deck holder 304 provides compressive force to snugly hold the card deck 302.

Although the deck holder 304 may be formed from any of several materials and combination of materials, the deck holder 304 is formed from neoprene having a layer of nylon cloth attached to at least the interior of the deck holder 304 such that the chamber is lined with nylon. The nylon layer provides a smooth, slick surface that allows the fitness activity cards 100 to easily glide in and out of the deck holder 304 while the tension force due to the elasticity and size of the deck holder 304 firmly grasps the card deck 302. Accordingly, a fitness card 100 can easily be removed from the deck holder 300 while remainder of the card deck 302 is restrained from falling out of the deck holder 304. In the exemplary embodiment, the deck holder 304 is formed by folding and stitching a single piece of 2 mm thick neoprene having nylon cloth attached to both sides. As discussed below, other items may be attached to the body 308 of the deck holder 300 to provide additional features. For example, a logo or label may be adhered or stitched to the deck holder 304. Further, a user attachment mechanism (shown in FIG. 5) such as belt clip may be glued or otherwise secured to the body of the deck holder 304. In addition, cloth or rubber piping may be secured to the edges of the deck holder 304 for aesthetic and durability purposes.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a perspective view of the fitness activity card system 300 where the deck holder 304 is in an open position in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the invention. In the open position, a front portion of the closing flap 306 is unsecured from the body and pulled back to expose the fitness card deck 302. As explained above, the exemplary deck holder 304 includes a securing mechanism 402 for maintaining the closing flap 306 in a closed position. An example of a suitable securing mechanism 402 includes a hook and loop system where a hook portion interfaces with a loop portion to connect the two portions together until the two pieces are forcibly separated. Such systems are often referred to as a Velcro® brand systems. In the exemplary embodiment, the securing mechanism 402 includes two sections of hook and loop material where the hooks and loops are dispersed over both sections. Such modified hook and loop systems are commercially available and are typically referred to as “two-in-one” hook and loop systems. Accordingly, a section of two-in-one hook and loop material is attached to both the securing flap 306 and the holder body 308 in the exemplary embodiment. Examples of suitable techniques for attaching the sections include gluing and stitching.

In the exemplary embodiment, a fitness activity card 100 of the card deck 304 can be partially pulled out from the deck holder 304 to at least partially expose the front face 200 and allow the user to view the fitness activity card 100 without completely removing the card 100. The user can easily set the holder in position and location such that the front face 200 of the selected fitness activity card is visible while the user engages, or prepares to engage, in the fitness activity described in the fitness card.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a rear perspective view of the fitness card system 300 where the card deck 300 is in a closed position in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the invention. In some circumstances, the card deck 300 includes a user attachment mechanism 502 to allow the card deck 300 to be worn or otherwise connected to the user. Examples of suitable user attachment mechanisms 502 include belt clips, straps and belt loops. In the exemplary embodiment, the user attachment mechanism 502 is a plastic clip that is glued to the back of the deck holder 300. In some circumstances where a strap is used, the strap may be an arm band used to attach the deck holder 304 to the user's arm. Other types of straps include wrist straps, thigh straps and necklaces.

Therefore, in the exemplary embodiment, a deck holder 304 and a fitness card deck 302 of fitness activity cards 100 provide a fitness management system 300 that allows participation in exercises, fitness activities, or sporting activities in manner that minimizes boredom and maximizes interest and continued participation. The fitness activity cards 100 represent fitness activities and may include fitness activity images 110, instructions 112, and other fitness activity descriptions 102. Due to the randomness, accessibility and other features, the user may engage in numerous games and activities for an individual or group. The elastic deck holder 304 firmly secures the fitness card deck 302 while allowing one or more fitness activity cards 100 to be selected. The exemplary fitness card system 300 may be worn by the user further facilitating a convenient way to exercise, work out, or participate in fitness games.

Clearly, other embodiments and modifications of this invention will occur readily to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of these teachings. The above description is illustrative and not restrictive. This invention is to be limited only by the following claims, which include all such embodiments and modifications when viewed in conjunction with the above specification and accompanying drawings. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but instead should be determined with reference to the appended claims along with their full scope of equivalents. 

1. A fitness card system comprising: a plurality of fitness cards, each of the fitness cards comprising a fitness activity identification identifying a fitness activity; and a flexible card holder configured to expand to hold the plurality of fitness cards with a tension force when the cards are inserted into the card holder.
 2. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the fitness activity represented by any one of the plurality of fitness cards is independent from all other fitness activities represented by other fitness cards.
 3. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of fitness cards comprises: a fitness activity description describing the fitness activity.
 4. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 3, wherein the fitness activity description comprises instructions for performing the activity.
 5. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 4, wherein the fitness activity description comprises a fitness activity image representing the fitness activity.
 6. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the fitness card holder comprises: a chamber having a shape configured to receive the plurality of fitness cards.
 7. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 6, wherein the chamber is enclosed except for an opening for receiving the plurality of fitness cards.
 8. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 7, further comprising a flap for at least partially covering the opening when the flap is in a closed position.
 9. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 7, an interior surface of the card holder comprises nylon.
 10. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 7, wherein the card holder comprises a section of flexible material configured to form the chamber.
 11. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 10, wherein the flexible material comprises neoprene.
 12. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 10, wherein the flexible material comprises nylon cloth attached to the neoprene.
 13. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 12, wherein the chamber has an interior size less than a card deck formed from the plurality of cards before the card deck is inserted into the chamber.
 14. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 13, wherein flexible material stretches to receive the card deck.
 15. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 10, further comprising a user attachment mechanism.
 16. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 15, wherein the user attachment mechanism comprises a clip configured to grasp an article of clothing.
 17. A fitness card system in accordance with claim 15, wherein the user attachment mechanism is a strap.
 18. A fitness activity card deck comprising: a plurality of fitness activity cards describing a plurality of fitness activities, the fitness activity represented by any one of the plurality of fitness cards independent from all other fitness activities represented by other fitness cards. 